Page 26 of Single Daddy Doctor Dreamy

"So did you," she says, her voice soft. There’s a moment of silence, and then she looks at me, her eyes searching mine. "Joel… can I ask you something?"

"Anything."

"What did you and Aiden talk about? After dinner?"

I hesitate, not sure how much to say. "Just… you."

Her eyebrows lift. "Me?"

I shake my head. "He’s protective. But he’s coming around."

She studies me for a moment, and then her lips curve into a small, knowing smile. "Good."

I lean in and plant a gentle kiss on her sweet lips.

13

LUCY

The day after Thanksgiving dawns crisp and bright, the kind of weather that begs for sweaters and scarves and hot chocolate in hand. The boys are buzzing with excitement as we pack up the car, their enthusiasm spilling over into loud, animated chatter. Today, we’re headed to Six Rivers National Forest to pick out a Christmas tree. You just need a permit and a saw and you’re good to go. A first for me, and apparently a cherished tradition for Joel and the boys.

"Alright," Joel says, his voice steady amidst the chaos, "does everyone have their gloves?"

"Got mine!" Finn declares, holding up his hands like a prize fighter.

"Me too," Miles adds, though his are already tucked snugly around the cast on his arm. His smile falters briefly as he looks down at it. "But I can’t help with the cutting."

I crouch down next to him, my own gloves in hand. "You’ll be the most important person there, the decision-maker. We can’t pick a tree without your expert opinion."

He brightens, the disappointment melting from his face. "Okay. I can do that."

The drive to the forest is filled with holiday music, the boys belting out every chorus while Joel navigates the winding roads. Lucy’s mom chats with Aiden in the backseat of the SUV, and I sit shotgun, sneaking glances at Joel as he drives. There’s something undeniably comforting about him, the way he hums along to the music under his breath, the steadiness of his hands on the wheel. It feels… natural. Like this is how it’s supposed to be.

When we arrive, the air smells so good. A sharp, clean scent that fills my lungs as I step out of the car. The forest stretches out in every direction, tall and majestic, the kind of place that makes you feel small in the best way.

Joel hoists the saw over his shoulder and grabs a thermos of hot chocolate from the car. "Alright, troops. Let’s find the perfect tree."

We set off, a small procession weaving through the forest trails. Finn runs ahead, darting from one tree to another, proclaiming each one "the best tree ever." Miles stays close, pointing out contenders with the discerning eye of a critic. Lucy’s mom and Aiden walk a little ways behind, their conversation a constant murmur of shared memories and playful bickering.

I stick close to Joel, our steps falling into an easy rhythm. "So, do you do this every year?"

"Pretty much," he says. "It’s kind of our thing. The boys love it."

"I can see why," I say, glancing around. "It’s beautiful out here."

"It is," he agrees, his gaze lingering on me for just a moment longer than necessary. My cheeks flush, and I’m grateful for the cold air to mask it.

After what feels like hours but is probably closer to thirty minutes, Miles spots it - the tree. It’s tall and full, with justthe right amount of character to make it perfect. We all gather around, admiring it like it’s a work of art.

"This is the one," Miles declares with authority as he points to the seven-foot-tall Douglas Fir.

Joel sets down the thermos and adjusts his grip on the saw. "Alright, let’s make it official."

As he starts to cut, Finn bounces around excitedly, peppering Joel with questions about sawing techniques. Miles watches intently, his cast resting on his lap, a mix of excitement and longing on his face. I kneel beside him again, handing him a cookie from the tin I brought along.

"You picked a great tree," I say. "It’s perfect."

He beams, taking a bite of the cookie. "You think so?"

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